Providence Regional Neurology Services

Neurologists at Providence provide principal care to patients with neurological disorders that require careful attention, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease or multiple sclerosis. Our neurologists also act as consultants to other physicians treating conditions such as stroke, concussion or chronic headaches.

What is a neurologist?

Neurologists are physicians who diagnose and treat disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. Many focus on specific conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or stroke. Pediatric neurologists specialize in children’s neurological disorders. A neurologist may diagnose and treat a neurological disorder, and then advise the primary care provider managing the patient's overall health.

Neurologists can recommend surgical treatment, but do not perform surgery. When treatment includes surgery, neurologists monitor patients and supervise their continuing treatment. Neurosurgeons are medical doctors who specialize in performing surgical treatments of the brain or nervous system.

If you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor:

Unexplained headaches

Dizziness

Persistent back and neck pain

Memory loss

Seizures

Muscle weakness, numbness or tingling

What neurologists treat

Providence neurologists treat the following conditions and diseases, among others:

Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias

Stroke

Brain tumors and disorders

Epilepsy

Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders

Multiple sclerosis

Headache

Head, neck and muscle pain

Brain and spinal cord injuries

Children’s neurological disorders

Peripheral nerve disorders

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease

What to expect when you see a neurologist

Your neurologist will perform a neurological assessment, which may include a physical exam to test whether your symptoms are related to a brain or nerve disorder. A typical physical exam will look at your behavioral or mental status; head and neck; cranial nerves; motor function; reflexes; coordination and gait; and sensory function. As needed, your neurologist will recommend further testing, such as a CT scan or MRI scan, to confirm a diagnosis.

Physiatrists are experts in issues that affect body movement. If you are seeking care for muscle and bone problems or pain – whether caused by a disease, condition, disorder or injury – we’re here to help.

Providence Health & Services in Oregon is a not-for-profit Catholic network of hospitals, care centers, health plans, physicians, clinics, home health care and affiliated services guided by a Mission of caring that the Sisters of Providence began in the West nearly 160 years ago.